After a little break on our team spotlights we’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on Rob Laing, one of our brilliant painters and decorators who joined the Presence & Co. family in September. In just a short time, Rob has already made a fantastic impression with his passion for the craft, upbeat attitude, and willingness to tackle any job—big or small. Whether he’s breathing life into a tired old gym or adding the finishing touches to a newly refurbished space, Rob brings a sense of fun and fulfilment to every project he touches.
Finding My Calling
What first inspired you to become a decorator, and how has your career developed?
I left school at 16 and, much to my dad’s annoyance, I decided to pursue painting and decorating instead of plumbing or electrics. I enrolled in a two-year City & Guilds course, which really set the foundation for my future in this trade. I did try office life for a while, working as a barrister’s clerk, but I quickly realised that environment wasn’t for me—I needed to be hands-on, creating something I could see and be proud of at the end of each day. Over the years, I’ve sharpened my skills and honed my eye for detail, and every new project feels like another chance to push myself further.
What’s the most challenging decorating project you’ve worked on?
Back in 2015, I tackled a seven-bedroom detached property just outside of Guildford. It was a real test of my abilities—I had to coordinate a team of seven decorators, work with a meticulous interior designer, and keep an eye on a tight budget. There were definitely moments where I worried we might overshoot our costs, but we pulled it off in the end. Seeing that project come together was a huge reminder of why I love this job: even when it’s tough, the end result makes it all worthwhile.
Making My Mark at Presence & Co.
Are there any recent projects at Presence & Co. that really stood out to you?
Absolutely—my first major project here was for a project at Gatwick, and it was a fantastic experience. The entire team, led by my line manager Alex, pulled together seamlessly, and the client was thrilled with how everything turned out. That success has even led to more business, which is a great feeling for all of us. I’m also really proud of a recent gym revamp where I helped transform a dated space into a fresh, modern environment. There’s nothing quite like standing back and seeing how far a room has come.
What’s one thing about decorating that most people don’t realise?
Preparation is everything. I’d say 60–70% of a successful decorating job happens before you even pick up a brush. It’s the sanding, the taping, the priming—those steps might not look particularly glamorous, but they’re the reason your finished job looks flawless. I always tell people that the extra time spent prepping is never wasted.
Any funny or memorable moments from working on-site that you’d like to share?
I’ll never forget the time I got stuck in a lift with a screaming child for a couple of hours. It was definitely not the best way to spend an afternoon, and I think the child would agree. Luckily, the fire brigade arrived to rescue us, and we both walked away without any harm done—just a story that still makes me laugh when I think about it now.
Looking Ahead
From the satisfaction of completing a complex project on budget to the camaraderie he’s found here at Presence & Co., Rob is constantly reminded why he chose this path. He loves nothing more than seeing a project through from dull and dated to bright and inviting—and doing it alongside colleagues who share his enthusiasm and professionalism.
We’re incredibly lucky to have Rob on our team, and we can’t wait to see the amazing projects he’ll tackle next. Stay tuned for more stories from the talented individuals who bring so much heart and skill to Presence & Co. If you spot Rob on-site, don’t hesitate to say hello – just don’t mention lifts!
